Is It Safe for Terminally Ill to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine?

The COVID-19 pandemic would have sounded like a good movie but never a reality a year ago. Regardless of how hard we fight, the vaccine rollout has made things a little simpler. Thousands of Americans are currently getting two vaccines that are proven to be effective- Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. More and more companies are creating a vaccine against Covid and try to be approved for emergency use, too. Even though the two vaccines are approved by the FDA and are considered to be harmless to the health, many people are still skeptical about them. That is because of the lack of information and how they would affect terminally ill patients. So, how would a hospice patient be sure if they need the COVID-19 vaccine?

What does the CDC state?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines are safe for everyone, including hospice care patients. As the risk of illnesses increases with age and underlying medical conditions, the CDC recommends administering the vaccine to the elderly with medical conditions unless you have an allergic reaction to the vaccine ingredients. In case of an allergic reaction, you should tell the doctor about it and never get the second shot of the same vaccine.

A red rash after receiving the vaccine

An itchy and sometimes painful rash is one of the side effects of the vaccine. Even though it may be a bit scary, there is nothing to worry about. If the vaccine you get needs a second shot, too, then after the recommended interval, you should receive the second shot. Tell the doctor about the rash or so-called “COVID arm”, and you will get the second shot in the other arm. Your doctor may also recommend you taking an antihistamine for the itchy rash and pain-relieving medication acetaminophen if it is painful. Side effects of the vaccine may also include headache, fever, anxiety, but they fade away on their own within the first week of injection.

Should hospice patients receive the Covid-19 vaccine?

Everyone should get the vaccine if they want to get it. Patients with a terminal illness should ponder over this matter and conclude whether they are eager to get the vaccine or not. If the hospice patients want to be with the ones they love as long as possible and enjoy their time, getting the vaccine is inevitable.

A visit of loved ones after the vaccination

As there is an emotional need to enjoy the time remaining with the loved ones, limited visits to the patients are allowed. However, following the rules of 3Ws is of the utmost importance when it comes to visiting:

Wash your hands thoroughly.
Watch your distance of a minimum of six feet.
Wear the mask that would completely cover your nose and mouth.

If you still can’t find the best option for you or your loved one who is terminally ill, consult with professionals before deciding to take action. Our hospice team members are available 24/7 for consultation and home visits. After the discussion and assessment, we will provide the best option tailored to your needs. Remember that you are never alone, and we are just a phone call away from you!

Is It Safe for Terminally Ill to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine?

What does the CDC state?

A red rash after receiving the vaccine

Should hospice patients receive the Covid-19 vaccine?

A visit of loved ones after the vaccination

Wash your hands thoroughly.

Watch your distance of a minimum of six feet.

Wear the mask that would completely cover your nose and mouth.